Storms, heavy rain and gusty winds possible Wednesday night

The National Weather Service said several rounds of showers and thunderstorms will move across much of the D.C. area throughout Wednesday afternoon and evening. Some of the storms could wind up being severe. (Courtesy National Weather Service)

Some scattered showers and storms for the afternoon hours. I'm still thinking tonight (after 6PM) we have the best chance for severe weather with VERY heavy rainfall and gusty winds the main concerns. West of line has a better chance for severe weather. pic.twitter.com/B8C1nipxoC
— Amelia Draper (@amelia_draper) June 20, 2018

Storm Team 4 Meteorologist Amelia Draper said the best chance for severe weather appears to be after 6 p.m. on Wednesday, particularly areas west of D.C. (Courtesy National Weather Service)

Just outside of the D.C. area, a flash flood watch is in effect through 10 p.m. for portions of eastern West Virginia, Western Maryland and Northern Virginia. (Courtesy National Weather Service)

In Central Virginia, the National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for portions of Orange County until 4:15 p.m. (Courtesy National Weather Service)

Much of the D.C. area faces only a slight risk of strong to severe thunderstorms, however heavy rain and strong to severe wind is possible. (Courtesy National Weather Service)

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WASHINGTON — Showers and thunderstorms, some of which could be severe, could hit the D.C. area on Wednesday, potentially complicating the evening commute.

“With any of these storms expect strong winds, heavy downpours that could lead to flooding and lots of lightning,” said Storm Team 4 meteorologist Lauryn Ricketts.

Some showers and isolated storms now but it's the rain and storms in WV and PA I'm watching to bring heavy rain from 6/7 – 11PM tonight to our area. Heavy rain and gusty winds main concerns. Some isolated flooding possible in spots. pic.twitter.com/l0622vHeAa

— Amelia Draper (@amelia_draper) June 20, 2018

Areas west of D.C. are at greater risk of seeing more severe weather.

The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for areas outside of the D.C. area in Western Maryland, eastern Western Virginia and Northern Virginia until 10 p.m.

Current Conditions

Traffic

In addition to the weather, a crash on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge has closed the Outer Loop through lanes, although Maryland State Police said they hope to have all lanes reopened by 6 p.m.

For the most updated traffic report, visit WTOP’s traffic center. You can see a map of the latest traffic conditions below.